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To make your weekend a little easier we have put together some useful information regarding local places to visit, caterers etc and to make your visit one to remember you can also find a list of exciting local activities, which you may find useful.

We have tried to source activities that are as close to your cottage as possible. Next to each activity is the time taken to drive there.

Please contact the activity provider directly for any further queries or to book.

We recommend that for large groups you book at least 2-3 months in advance for activities as during the summer months they can get very busy and in the winter months some places will close.

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Local Towns

BUDE - 35 minute drive

Bude is a small seaside resort town in north Cornwall. Bude is a great resort and famous for its pastel painted beach huts, crazy golf and wide sandy beaches. Once a busy commercial port, Bude blossomed as a holiday destination in the 19th century when the train came to town and tourists took their first tentative dips in the Atlantic. Today the town still retains that air of genteel charm putting it somewhere between up-to-date resort and nostalgic getaway. The town’s beaches (there are two massive sandy ones) are perfect for long summer days building sandcastles or getting in some surf lessons.

The town centre has a good mix of independent shops so you won’t go short of souvenirs and also has a vast variety of places to dine and enjoy a cocktail or two whilst watching the sun set. From the town there are great walks along the highest sea cliffs in Cornwall. Nearby you’ll find some titbits of local history and some of the most dramatic beaches in the county.

BIDEFORD - 30 minute drive

Bideford Bay has a great selection of pubs, music and restaurants to satisfy every palate. Visit the pannier market or wander through the traffic free lanes, lined with quirky little shops packed with all manner of interesting items, and when it's time for a break you can stop at one of the many pavement cafes for a coffee or a spot of lunch. Stroll along the quay and admire the waterfront where once a fortnight you'll discover great local produce at the Bideford Farmers Market. For cyclists and walkers, the town is close to the Tarka Trial, free of traffic to explore. Nearby, Appledore is a magnet for literary and art lovers and home to the Appledore Book Festival, while Westward Ho! provides one of North Devon's top beaches and a great seaside resort.

Local Pubs and Restaurants

The Hart Inn – Hartland (5 minute drive)

A very popular traditional pub situated in the village. From pub meals to fresh fish dishes – there is something for everyone. Be sure to try there delicious roast dinner on a Sunday.

The Anchor Inn – Hartland (5 minute drive)

Situated in the village, the Anchor is popular with the locals. Serving home cooked meals and even takeaway pizzas!

Visit: http://theanchorinnhartland.co.uk/

The Kings Arms – Hartland (5 minute drive)

Newly renovated and taken over by new owners, the Kings Arms is a cosy place to relax by the fire.

Visit: https://www.facebook.com/Kings-Arms-Hartland-124026794288976/

Hartland Quay – Hartland (10 minute drive)

A lovely pub with a spectacular view! A 10 minute drive outside of the village you will find Hartland Quay. Take a stroll along the beach and relax with a hearty lunch or sit outside overlooking the bay with a drink and watch the sunset. A definite place not to be missed!

Visit: http://hartlandquayhotel.co.uk/wreckers-bar/

Pattard Kitchen - Hartland (3 minute drive) (10-15 minute walk)

Locally owned by Bjorn, Pattard Kitchen is a new stylish restaurant serving a range of delicious dishes. Relax in the newly converted barn whilst you enjoy a glass of wine and sample the exquisite dishes Bjorn has to offer.

http://www.pattardkitchen.com/

Woolsery Fish and Chip Shop – Woolsery (15 minute drive)

Located in a small village of Woolsery, a 15 minute drive outside of Hartland. From homemade burgers to freshly cooked fish.

A 15 minute drive north of Hartland towards Bideford you will find the Hoops Inn. Serving fresh, local and seasonal meals, the hoops inn is a lovely pub for some hearty food.

Visit: http://hoopsinn.co.uk/eat.asp

The Old Smithy Inn - Welcombe (20 minute drive)

A ‘quirky’ pub situated in the heart of Welcombe, a 20 minute drive outside of Hartland. With retro décor the pub is certain to not disappoint. From a chilled out atmosphere during the days to a fun filled evening, everyone is sure to love this pub. Take a look at their website for information on their weekly music nights!

Visit: http://www.theoldsmithyinn.co.uk/

Elements – Widemouth Bay, Bude (35 minute drive)

If Italian meals are you thing, then be sure to take a visit to Elements Restaurant. From Pizzas to pastas, there is a range of food and plenty to choose from. Situated overlooking the beautiful Widemouth Bay in Bude around a 35 minute drive from Hartland.

Visit: http://www.elements-life.co.uk/

Life’s A Beach – Summerleaze Beach, Bude (35 minute drive)

Specialising in sea food, Life’s A Beach is popular for lunch or dinner, especially with stunning views over the sandy beach of Summerleaze.

Visit: http://lifesabeach.info/

The Bank – Bude (35 minute drive)

A lovely tapas restaurant to enjoy with family or friends. Pick a few dishes to share alongside wine or even their delicious cocktails.

Visit: http://www.thebankatbude.co.uk/

The Tree inn – Stratton, Bude (30 minute drive)

An old traditional pub located in the village of Stratton. Serving a range of different hearty meals and local beers. Be sure to book in for their Sunday carvery!

Visit: http://www.treeinn.co.uk/

The Beach at Bude – Bude (35 minute drive)

Known for their amazing cocktails, The Beach at Bude is a classy, up market place to enjoy with friends. Their ‘Passion Martini’ is a cocktail not to be missed and a definite best seller. Dine in their restaurant located next to the bar area serving a choice of different A la Carte meals and on a lovely summers evening or sit out on their terrace overlooking the beautiful Summerleaze beach.

Visit: http://www.thebeachatbude.co.uk/

Mirchi – Bude (35 minute drive)

Fancy an Indian, either as a takeaway or to eat in. Traditional delicious Indian dishes cooked by the best chefs, Mirchi will leave you wanting to return.

Fancy a Asian Meal, either as a takeaway or to eat in. Qualified chefs bring to life a menu of oriental delights. Their mantra was to introduce a dining venue where patrons can indulge in some of the finest cuisine across the asia pacific.

Located in North Devon, the Pier House is well known for its stunning setting. Situated on the cliff overlooking, Bideford Bay and Lundy Island and serving fantastic bistro style food during the day or evening. They even offer a Sunday carvery, but be sure to book!

Visit: http://www.thepier-house.co.uk/

Morans - Westward Ho! (25 minute drive)

Perfect for those who love Thai food! A family run restaurant serving a range of exclusive Thai Cuisine or English dishes. Overlook the bay of Westward Ho and enjoy original Thai Cuisine with a glass of wine or even a cocktail!

http://moransrestaurant.co.uk/

The Pig on the Hill - Westward Ho! (25/30 minute drive)

Situated on top of the Hill just outside of Westward Ho this pub offers a range of home cooked meals and daily specials. A perfect cosy country pub!

http://www.pigonthehillwestwardho.co.uk/

The Thatched Inn - Abbotsham, Bideford (20 minute drive)

A traditional historic pub situated in a small village called Abbotsham, Set within its own picturesque walled gardens, this pub is perfect for all the family.

http://www.thethatchedinn.com/

The Riverbank Bistro - Bideford (20 minute drive)

Formerly known as The Swann Inn, the River Bank Bideford serves a mouth watering selection of freshly prepared dishes, using the finest meats, seafood, fruit and vegetables sourced locally wherever possible.

http://www.theriverbankbistro.co.uk/

Lilicos - Barnstaple (35 minute drive)

Lilico's is the perfect setting for a relaxed tapas meal with someone special or for friends out to enjoy the buzz of our fashionable bar. Move between the relaxed restaurant and buzzy bar and sink into our leather sofas, with speciality coffee and cake from our patisserie, or enjoy champagne by the glass or a cocktail.

http://www.lilicos.co.uk/

The Boathouse - Instow (30 minute drive)

Renowned for their delicious fish dishes, the Boathouse is situated on the seafront in the lovely village of Instow.

http://www.instow.net/boathouse/boathouse.htm

Transport

We understand that you might not want to drive everywhere during your stay with us. There are a number of local companies who provide mini bus hire, and they all charge competitive rates.

Hills

Good for minibus hire (up to 16 people). They are more competitive for trips to Hartland, Bideford or Barnstaple. 01805 601203

Heards

The smallest bus they have seats 35. However because they are based locally in the village, their rates are still competitive even for a smaller group. 01237 441233

Robs Travel

A Bude based taxi company with two minibuses for hire (both 16 seaters). 07771 824141

The nearest train station is Barnstaple. It's about a 30min drive and costs about £50-£60 in a 6 seater taxi one way. For smaller taxi's try Nat at Value Taxi's on 01271 327777 or B-Line on 01271 322117.

Extreme sports

The Adventure Centre – Bideford (20 minute drive)

The Ultimate Adventure Centre as a whole host of exciting activities that’s sure to get your heart racing! Ever fancied a go at ‘The Total Wipe-out’? Well now you can! Or why not have a go at the Ultimate High, the Ultimate Assault, Mountain Boarding, the Ultimate Ops Laser Tag, Kayaking, Coasteering and everything in-between!

Skern Lodge (5-30 minute drive or minibus pick up if available)

Established 1976 Skern Lodge have lots of experience in leading groups in outdoor activities. You can either travel to their centre near Bideford for activities like kayaking and high ropes, or they can pick you up in a mini bus and take you to the rugged coast of Hartland to try abseiling, climbing and more.

Phoenix Leisure (0mins drive)

Simon Mugglestone runs Phoenix Leisure, an activities company with over 10 years of experience running hen weekends and activities events. From archery to laser clay pigeon shooting, Simon can bring it all to you at Hartland House

The Southwest’s’ premier indoor trampolining park, offering a wide range of bouncing activities. For large groups, you can even rent out the park from around £15 per person including food and drink whilst you are there!

Visit: http://www.air-extreme.co.uk/

Watersports

Surfing lesson (around 30 minute drive)

You’re in Devon, surrounded by miles of amazing coastline with some of the best waves in the world. You have to go surfing!

Feeling adventurous? Outdoor adventure offer lots of activities for you to try from surf lessons, to coasteering, climbing and lots more! Perfect for those larger groups who want to try their hand at something new!

We are very lucky to have one of the best cycling routes in the UK not too far away. The Tarka Trail is a 34mile cycle path and the great news is that because it used to be a train line it’s completely flat! Stop at one of Instows lovely pubs, or the Tea Room at Fremington Quay.

Tucked away near the lovely fishing village of Clovelly you'll find Sarah's 'Rowentree Studio'. Take part in a variety of activities such as quilt making, vintage tea cup candle making and wedding bunting making.

What better way to kick start a great evening! Jamins have been touring the country for years teaching people how to make the best cocktails. They are very professional and come highly recommended – ask for Luke!

Wine tasting (0 mins drive)

Jane from the Cornwall Wine School is a qualified wine tasting teacher (there is a more formal name!) and will come to your cottage to share her wine and knowledge. You can upgrade to a fizz and champagne tasting too!

A lovely 30 minute walk will bring you to the Lighthouse. The lighthouse itself is inaccessible due to cliff erosion (as is the beach) however you are still able to admire the spectacular view of the coastline from the cliff. And if you are feeling hungry, there is a cabin serving homemade sandwiches and cakes, but be sure to check the opening times!

Beautiful Beaches

Hartland Quay – Hartland (10 minute drive)

A dramatic coastline with pretty coves, Hartland Quay is a favourite. You will also find public toilets, a shop and a restaurant here too.

Westward Ho! (25 minute drive)

Through the bustling town of Westward Ho! you will find the beach. A wide open pebbly beach, with a lovely ‘seaside’ feel, close to different amenities.

Welcombe mouth - Welcombe (25 minute drive)

A secluded, quiet beach located at the end of a narrow track. The car park is very close and there is sand from mid-low tide.

Duckpool – Woodford (30 minute drive)

Nestled in the valley, Duckpool is a quiet hidden beach. The car park is located next to the beach along with public toilets. There is also a lovely walk is over the cliffs to its neighbouring beach Sandymouth.

Sandymouth – Nr Kilkhampton / Bude (30 minute drive)

A wide open, well sheltered national trust beach. A café serving delicious sandwiches and ice-creams is situated at the top of the slope and open during the summer months.

Widemouth Bay – Nr Bude (35 minute drive)

A surfer’s paradise! With breath taking views, Widemouth Bay really is worth the visit. With an unspoilt feeling and rugged cliffs to wonder, we recommend after a refreshing walk, why not take some time out to relax with a drink and maybe a spot of lunch at ‘The Bay View Inn’. Sit back and enjoy the views.